A Tale of Two Eagles

Landing	The measurements would eventually tend to indicate that one was a male and the other most likely a female. Because young goldens are very susceptible to a disease called "aspergillosis," a fungal infection that attacks the respiratory system of raptors, they were also treated with Sporanox as a preventive action. This medicine is quite effective as a prophylactic in treating and preventing the onset of
the disease. The birds grew healthy and strong as they lived in the large 60-foot flight enclosures over the next several months. Our first thought was to release them as soon as possible when they were old enough and demonstrated their ability to be eagles. It's normal for young birds to learn their adult skills from their parents, and then the sooner they are in their natural environment, the better. The problem was, they were also being held as evidence in the ongoing legal case against the person who had originally taken them. Even though they were well enough to be released many months ago, we were required to hold them as long as the legal battles raged on. The trial was long and expensive, as was the maintenance of the two eagles! It was estimated that the cost of their upkeep, including food, medicine, blood and lab work, and overall care came to over $27,000. We are hoping to be reimbursed for this cost. Eventually the courtroom drama concluded and at last we were told we could make plans to free the birds. They were first separated into two adjoining flight rooms and the "final exams" began. Live prey was introduced into their respective enclosures and we waited… At first, they seemed reluctant to hunt and kill on their own. Would they only perform as a team? This wouldn't work in the wild. More time was allowed and more prey introduced. Finally they seemed to catch on and the wait was over. They began to hunt and feed themselves as they were intended.
The usual suspects	The first release site was chosen in Aubrey Valley near Seligman. This is a good habitat for golden eagles and it was thought to be an excellent release area. However, at the last minute, USFWS agreed with the elders of the Hopi Nation that the birds would be set free on Hopi land. On July 2, Joe Miller placed both of these magnificent birds in carriers and along with 12 Liberty volunteers
and staff, we headed out. After a stop in Flagstaff to pick up the USFWS representative, we drove to the Hopi ranger station about 100 miles further north. There we met with around 20 Hopi officials, including their own wildlife officers, and the tribal Chairman, Co-Chairperson, and many of their staff and other officials. After a brief discussion and introductions, we all drove out to the site that had been chosen for the release. Many of the Hopis had never seen a golden eagle in person and Jan Miller gave them a chance to look into the carriers before they were opened. All of the tribal members were extremely grateful for this opportunity as well as for our help in the entire project, from keeping the birds healthy to bringing them "home" for their return to freedom.
Hopi Elders get a look	Two tribal officials were selected to open the carrier doors and soon both birds came out and flew over the sunny hills to freedom. One landed on the next rise about 250 yards away and seemed to enjoy the wind over his wings and the sun on his back. The other bird chose a more secluded landing spot and didn't pose for his "graduation picture." It was a happy ending to a long story that began on a darker note, only to reach its outcome in the bright sunlight with high hopes for an equally bright future for these birds!